Rhea Ripley new romantic angle with Cathy Kelley has become a hot topic just as The Nightmare gears up for the 2025 Women’s Money in the Bank Ladder Match on June 7. Following a period of criticism over her frequent title shots, Ripley now faces fresh speculation as she and backstage correspondent Cathy Kelley appear to tease an on-screen relationship, adding a new twist to her WWE presence.
Speculation Rises Over Rhea Ripley and Cathy Kelley’s On-Screen Chemistry
As one of WWE’s most prominent female stars, Rhea Ripley’s career has been defined by her tireless work and major high-profile matches. Despite a chorus of voices suggesting she’s often favored with title opportunities, Ripley remains at the center of storylines. Recently, attention shifted when reports emerged that she may be preparing for a new romantic storyline with Cathy Kelley, who is known for her role as a backstage interviewer and correspondent.
The speculation intensified when Kelley shared a TikTok video featuring herself and Ripley. In the clip, both women were seen in a call booth, with Kelley stepping out first to adjust her clothes and Ripley exiting soon after, smiling in a playful manner. This playful interaction sparked a flurry of fan theories about Ripley and Kelley possibly starting a romantic angle on WWE programming.
Adding further intrigue, Cathy Kelley has publicly embraced being referred to as Ripley’s “work girlfriend.” On social media platform X, she even called for a match between Ripley and Stephanie Vaquer. Should this rivalry develop, Kelley might transition into a new role as Ripley’s on-screen partner and manager, enriching the unfolding storylines on RAW.
However, it is important to note that nothing has been officially confirmed by WWE regarding this rumored angle involving Rhea Ripley and Cathy Kelley. For now, these developments remain speculative, drawing excitement and debate within the WWE Universe.
Behind the Scenes: Rhea Ripley’s Bond with Raquel Rodriguez
Beyond the potential new storyline, Ripley maintains notable relationships with other WWE superstars. Her longtime rivalry with Raquel Rodriguez—also known as Big Mami Cool—has played out in the ring and captured fan interest. Yet off camera, their bond takes on a different character.
Raquel Rodriguez openly discussed her connection with Ripley during an interview on “Casual Conversation with The Classic.”
“I look at Rhea like my real-life sister, which is also a never-ending rivalry. That’s just what sisters do, you know? We fight, we make up. We fight, we make up. We fight, we make up. But at the end of the day, they’re always there. Rhea has come such a long way on her own as the superstar in [The] Judgment Day, as this megastar that she is today. So, working with her is always going to be a pleasure of mine,”
said Rodriguez. —Raquel Rodriguez, WWE Superstar
This candid statement reveals the depth and respect behind their on-screen competition, showing how WWE’s storytelling often reflects the real bonds between its performers.
The Road Ahead for The Nightmare
With Triple H leading WWE’s creative direction, the possibilities for Rhea Ripley’s character seem wide open. As anticipation grows for her performance at the upcoming Money in the Bank event, intrigue over the possible on-screen dynamic with Cathy Kelley continues to capture fan interest. While time will tell how these rumors convert into storyline developments, The Nightmare remains a focal point within WWE, her next moves anxiously awaited by fans and rivals alike.
